Why Matt Dodge Shouldn’t Be Solely Blamed for the Giants’ Loss

December 20, 2010   ·   Casey Schermick   ·   Jump to comments

DeSean Jackson capped off one of the most remarkable comebacks in Philadelphia Eagles history Sunday by returning a Matt Dodge punt 65 yards for a touchdown as time expired to beat the New York Giants, 38-31.  The win nearly clinches the NFC East title for the Eagles. 
Immediately after the play had ended, Giants head coach Tom Coughlin confronted the rookie punter about kicking to Jackson.  While Dodge clearly messed up the play and sent a line drive directly to Jackson, the blame should not be placed directly on his shoulders.
Let's wind back the clock a little bit...
With 8:17 left in the fourth quarter, the Giants extended their lead to 21 points.  Just 49 seconds later, Michael Vick hooked up with tight end Brent Celek for a 65-yard touchdown.  On that play, safety Kenny Phillips missed a tackle that allowed Celek to break free for the score. 
On the ensuing kickoff, the Eagles caught everybody off guard by running an onside kick ...

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